You might be thinking how difficult it is to have faith when you have just received an alarming doctor’s report that has left you devastated. Maybe, you have a loved one that is addicted to drugs, and you have given up hope that they will recover. Perhaps, financial pressures are weighing you down. Unfortunately, the list is endless of tormenting and pressing problems that trigger anxiety and fear. However, I have learned throughout the years how to strengthen my faith and weaken my fears.
The Source of Faith
In order to increase your faith, you have to go directly to the source of faith. The bible says that we must keep our eyes on Jesus. We can trust the teachings and power of Jesus because he understands mental, physical, and emotional anguish. He experienced unimaginable trials on the earth and can relate to our suffering and sorrows. Apostle Paul states in Hebrews 12:2 (AMP): “[looking away from all that will distract us and] focusing our eyes on Jesus, who is the Author and Perfecter of faith [the first incentive for our belief and the One who brings our faith to maturity], who for the joy [of accomplishing the goal] set before Him endured the cross, disregarding the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God [revealing His deity, His authority, and the completion of His work]”. In addition, Jesus has provided us with overwhelming victory and supernatural tools to live triumphantly. In I Corinthians 15:57 (ESV), we see “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Starve Your Fears
Looking to Jesus also means reading, learning, and studying scripture. God is not only a Spirit being, but he is also one with his word. To diligently seek the scriptures and ask the Holy Spirit to teach you truth is also spending intimate time with Christ. What better way to starve your fears than to fellowship with the Prince of Peace! In John 1:1 (NLT) he states, “In the beginning, the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Remember whatever you feed will grow, but whatever you starve will die. In other words, making consistent, daily, quality time with God a priority will increase your faith and decrease your worries!
PRAY THIS PRAYER: “Father what a privilege to be called a child of God. What an honor to be able to humbly but boldly come to the throne of grace to obtain mercy. How great it is to spend time with the Creator of the Universe, the Ancient of Days, the Eternal God, and Everlasting Father. Lord, I am amazed by you. Forgive me for allowing day-to-day life matters to take me away from enjoying your Presence and seeking your face. May I never forget that you are the reason I live, move, and have my very being. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”
